Foreigner, a British-American rock band, is responsible for the iconic power ballad “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Released in late 1984, the song quickly achieved global recognition, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the band’s signature songs.
The Story Behind “I Want to Know What Love Is”
The song’s creation was a deeply personal experience for Foreigner’s guitarist and songwriter, Mick Jones. He penned the song during a period of emotional turmoil in his life, navigating a divorce, a new relationship, and internal band conflicts. The inspiration struck him late one night in 1984, and he describes the songwriting process as almost divine intervention.
Initially, Jones composed the title, opening chords, and chorus. He immediately recognized the song’s potential and shared the nascent idea with his soon-to-be wife. He then brought the song to the rest of the band—vocalist Lou Gramm, bassist Rick Wills, and drummer Dennis Elliott—for their input as they worked on Foreigner’s album Agent Provocateur.
The New Jersey Mass Choir’s Contribution
While Jones felt confident in the song’s core elements, he sought to enhance its spiritual depth. After considering various artists, including Aretha Franklin, he connected with the New Jersey Mass Choir through a gospel music label. Hearing their powerful vocals, he knew they were the perfect addition to the song. The choir’s performance, particularly their rendition after reciting the Lord’s Prayer, brought Jones to tears and elevated the song to another level. The recording session, with the choir’s passionate singing and the presence of Jones’s parents, proved to be an emotionally charged experience. This collaboration added a gospel influence to the power ballad, distinguishing it from other rock songs of the time.
A Universal Hit and Lou Gramm’s Reaction
Even Ahmet Ertegün, the renowned president of Atlantic Records and a mentor to Jones, was moved to tears upon hearing “I Want to Know What Love Is.” This reaction solidified Jones’ belief in the song’s power. Upon its release, the song resonated with audiences worldwide, becoming a number one hit and solidifying Foreigner’s place in music history. The song transcended mere fandom, offering solace and comfort to listeners during times of hardship.
Interestingly, lead vocalist Lou Gramm later publicly distanced himself from the song, reportedly due to his desire to break away from the band and their perceived shift towards ballads. Despite Gramm’s later disavowal, “I Want to Know What Love Is” remains a testament to Jones’s songwriting talent and the enduring power of music to connect with people on a profound level. It remains a staple in popular culture, often featured in films, television shows, and covered by numerous artists. The song’s legacy continues to touch hearts and inspire new generations of music lovers.
